Unilateral Nosebleeds in a Canine

Unilateral nosebleeds in canines are nosebleeds that occur in either the left or right nasal passage. When these bleeds occur, dogs usually sniffle or sneeze before blood is present. When the nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis, begin, the blood may drip, or be sprayed by sneezing or abrupt outward breaths. Unilateral nosebleeds can be the result of many underlying issues; therefore, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis depend on careful examination by veterinarians.

  1. Causes of Canine Unilateral Nosebleeds

    • There are many causes and conditions that can lead to unilateral nosebleeds in dogs. The problem can arise from an irritation in the nasal passages from excessive sneezing. The sneezing is usually the result of dry air or pollutants such as smoke, dust or dirt. Bacterial or fungal infections can also lead to conditions in the nasal passages of dogs that can make them bleed. Injuries can also cause nosebleeds in dogs. Health conditions in areas close to canine nasal passages, such as infected teeth or sinuses, can also contribute to unilateral bleeding. However, sometimes canine unilateral nosebleeds originate from less common but more serious conditions. Blood clots, anemia and benign or malignant tumors can trigger canine unilateral nosebleeds.

    Breeds Susceptible to Unilateral Nosebleeds

    • Typically, dog breeds with long nose structures are more prone to unilateral nosebleeds. For example, dogs such as collies with long noses are prime candidates for bleeding nasal passages. However, certain breeds are also more susceptible to nasal tumors and thus are more likely to experience unilateral nosebleeds. Sheepdogs, retrievers, pointers, Basset hounds and Scottish and Airedale terriers are breeds that are more likely than others to develop tumors in and around the nasal passages that result in bleeding.

    Canine Unilateral Nosebleed Symptoms

    • Some canine breeds are more prone to unilateral nosebleeds than others.

      Dogs that have unilateral nosebleeds often have symptoms before nasal blood is present. Coughing, wheezing and sneezing may occur. Dogs may also seem to have trouble breathing, may snore and may scratch at their noses with their paws because of discomfort within the nasal passages. Often, discharge that is tainted with blood will occur before bleeds begin. In addition, dogs with more serious health issues such as nasal cancer may have facial swelling, watery eyes and lethargy along with unilateral nosebleeds.

    Diagnosis of Causes of Unilateral Nosebleeds

    • Veterinarians will do a variety of tests to diagnose the cause of unilateral nosebleeds in canines. Exams, blood work, biopsies and x-rays are all used to help figure out why nosebleeds are happening. A rhinoscope that uses a tube with a camera is sometimes to determine if a nasal blockage is present. CT scans are helpful if nasal cancer is suspected.

    Canine Unilateral Nosebleed Treatments

    • Prompt evaluation by a veterinarian is crucial when dogs experience unilateral nosebleeds.

      If a diagnosis of a unilateral nosebleed indicates that an affected dog is sensitive to specific allergens or irritates, treating the bleed is as simple as removing the cause of the problem. Infections are easily treated with medications, and nose drops may be prescribed to help relieve dry, irritated nasal passages. Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier may also be recommended. However, if blood clots or tumors are present, surgery may be necessary. In the case of cancerous tumors, radiation is usually recommended along with surgical removal of the malignancy. These types of canine cancer are often invasive and fast-growing. Dogs that have unilateral nosebleeds as a result of nasal cancer may live a year or less if it is an aggressive form of the disease. If the cancer is diagnosed in the early stages, however, normal life expectancy is likely.